Sunday, October 19, 2014

Man of the Match

Sergio Aguero was voted man of the match for his incredible four goal performance against Spurs. And who can blame him? Despite missing a penalty kick, Sergio showed why he is the danger in the Manchester City attack. His ability to create space for himself with the ball left Spurs defenders gasping for air and swinging at shadows the entire match.

But to be honest, I don't think he was man of the match. For me, it was Joe Hart. Why? Well, you would not know it from the outcome, but Spurs only had one less shot than City (19 vs. 20). While they only had seven on target, each one of them required a fine save. Even the goal was one that Joe got a piece of and almost kept the clean sheet.

But what really got my attention was the save on the penalty. If that ball goes in, the score is 2-2 and it is an entirely different match. I don't know if it was pure luck or a great read, but Hart was all over the ball and made a great save to a ball going into a bottom corner. Pure class.

I'm sure that Spurs goal keeper Hugo Lloris will not be looking forward to the next City match. Over the last three matches, City has completely lit up Spurs. Despite the City tally, Lloris has accounted well for himself and has made a number of fine saves. But the City goals have been well earned.

One person not in the running for the man of the match was Fernando. His performance so far this year has been ok, but he's definitely the most disappointing signing City have made this season. Particularly early in this match, Spurs were getting in front of Hart much too easily and most of it was his fault. It was his turnover that allowed the goal. Let's hope that he gets stronger as the season moves on.